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readersincealways's review
5.0
Read Remember by Ann Lethbridge part of anthology. Great short read. Wonderful grasp of period detail. Short but does not feel forced or rushed. Good characters with a theme of reclaiming a lost first love years after that love has been broken by parental interference.
hellodiana's review
lighthearted
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
3.0
nononanette's review
2.0
Romance novels are about the characters and relationship. Without the length to develop them they are just tropes and like eating lowfat desserts—never satisfied.
lizabethstucker's review
3.0
The Mammoth Book of Regency Romance edited by Trisha Telep
A collection of 23 romances set during the short period of time called the Regency era. Lasting only between 1811 and 1820 when the Prince of Wales ruled as Prince Regent in place of his unstable father King George III, although some expand the time frame to the period between 1795 and 1837. A lovely collection that is a great introduction to some of the finest Regency romance writers around, even if a couple were overlooked or unavailable. 3.5 out of 5.
“Desperate Measures” by Candice Hern
Lydia Bettridge has been secretly in love with Geoffrey Danforth for years, but he appears to think of her as just his best friend’s sister. Another friend of her brother, Philip Hartwell, has a plan. Make the unknown object of Lydia’s affections jealous by playing attention to her. Except Philip bows out at the last minute, sending Geoffrey in to take his place playing the faux suitor.
A true comedy of errors with a delightful ending. I’ve always liked Hern’s Regencies for their mixture of romance and humor. This short story is a wonderful example of that. 3.5 out of 5.
~*~
“Upon a Midnight Clear” by Anna Campbell
Sebastian Sinclair, Earl of Kinvarra, and his wife have been separated for ten long years. He never expected to come across Alicia and her potential lover at the crash of a curricle. When Lord Harold Fenton deserts her, Sebastian must escort Alicia to safety and warmth. Alicia loved her husband, but his rough attentions on their wedding night had hurt and frightened her 17 year old self. While the separation had been her idea, neither expected it to last so long. Can this chance encounter help repair the damage?
Mere children when they came together in an arranged marriage, Sebastian and Alicia needed time to mature. Add the reason for their separation and you have an even better reason for their being apart for so many years. Still, everyone deserves a second chance. 3.5 out of 5.
~*~
“The Dashing Miss Langley” by Amanda Grange
Annabelle Langley had loved one special man years ago only to discover her feelings were one-sided. Now wealthy and independent, she was removing her niece from the city to gain distance from a youthful crush. The last person that Annabelle expected to run into was her once and only love, Lord Daniel Arundel.
A headstrong niece, an understanding aunt, differences in class and wealth, all are grist for the mill of this Regency romance. Of special note is the vivid description of the sudden storm that Annabelle and her niece were caught in. 4 out of 5.
~*~
“Cynders and Ashe” by Elizabeth Boyle
Ella Cynders has one chance to attend the Ashe Ball, all thanks to a lost invitation and a rejected gown. It was a dangerous thing to do, but would give her an opportunity to see Julian, Viscount Ashe, one final time before he is forced to marry.
A masterful reworking of the ancient fairytale, even if it was very unlikely that Julian's family would accept a young woman like Ella as his wife. 4 out of 5.
~*~
“His Wicked Revenge” by Vanessa Kelly
Anthony Barnett had lived for revenge after being torn from his first love. He schemed and worked until he had Lady Marissa Paget's wastrel brother in his clutches. But can he destroy the woman he still loves once he learns the whole truth?
Well written and intense. While it would have been better served in a longer version, Kelly still managed to engage your emotions during the read. 4 out of 5.
~*~
“Lady Invisible” by Patricia Rice
Widower Major Lucas Sumner needs a wife to help tame his tomboy daughter, one who wouldn’t mind living in the country that he loves. Fond memories of Harriet Briggs has him considering her a likely candidate, but who will tame Harriet?
I am particularly fond of heroines who are different and happy with their lives, so Harriet is wonderful. A beautiful tale that is my favorite to date in this collection. 4.5 out of 5.
~*~
“The Piano Tutor” by Anthea Lawson
Now that she is finally out of mourning, Diana Waverly, Viscountess Merrowstone, is being encouraged to live her life again, starting with the new piano tutor for her stepdaughter. Nicholas Jameson, the tutor, brings her back to life, but at what cost?
An interesting tale that had too abrupt an ending, even if it was expected. This would've been better suited as a longer story. 3.5 out of 5.
~*~
“Stolen” by Emma Wildes
Stephen Hammond used the opportunity of burglary with his childhood friend to seduce her. Lady Sabrina Pearson was all he wanted, but believed he could never be enough for her.
Interesting tale of good friends meant for each other finally figuring it out. 3.5 out of 5.
~*~
“Her Gentleman Thief” by Robyn DeHart
When a highwayman holds up Annalise Petty's coach, she uses it as a way to escape her marriage to Griffin Hartwell, Viscount Benning, certain that is simply the price for a piece of property.
Griffin's reticence came close to ruining his love life as Annalise had become so used to being a non-entity among her own family members. 3.5 out of 5.
~*~
“The Weatherlys’ Ball” by Christie Kelley
Lady Tessa Townson was back in society, a widow who still carries the taint of scandal. The man she had been caught with so many years ago was still alive. Garrett, Viscount Haverhill, wanted to hate Tessa for her betrayal in remarrying so quickly after he left for the war, but there was more to the story than he knew.
Tragic lovers torn apart by lies and circumstances can be a wonderful trope if in the right hands. Kelly definitely is the right author for the job. 4.5 out of 5.
~*~
“The Panchamaabhuta” by Leah Ball
Widow of a fallen soldier, all Francis had left was the Panchamaabhuta, an exotic ruby ring. Desperate, still grieving, she struggles to Bath to sell it to an interested party. Along the way she runs into Jared White, a rough hewn character who keeps stealing the ring while also bringing her back to life.
An interesting idea, having a hero with non-white blood, although the description of him couldn’t be whiter. I wish Ball had been willing to have Jared show that difference. Some very strong writing. 3.5 out of 5.
~*~
“Angelique” by Margo Maguire
Angelique Drummond is furious, forced by her father’s will to deal with her former fiancé for her living expenses. Angelique had fled to Italy after being told that Brice Colton, Duke of Heyworth, was keeping a mistress despite being engaged to her. She would not be like her mother, waiting for crumbs of love from her husband, wondering who he was with this time.
Sadly this just didn’t work for me. Too rushed, too formulaic, too trite. I didn’t have any emotional connection with any of the characters. Angelique is partly portrayed as a spoiled brat, yet even that doesn’t ring true. 3 out of 5.
~*~
“Like None Other” by Caroline Linden
Lady Emmaline Bowen enjoyed her small garden as well as the easy conversation with her neighbor, Captain Phineas Quentin, who would speak to her over the wall dividing their properties. But will their mothers ruin what might be the start of a beautiful love affair?
Sweet and lovely and different. I loved the ease of their conversation as well as how befuddled Quentin is with sweet talking a woman he wants to spend the rest of his life with. 4 out of 5.
~*~
“The Catch of the Season” by Shirley Kennedy
Miss Julia Winslow has received a marriage proposal from Charles Carstairs, Lord Melton. The Earl is a perfect specimen of manhood and it is Julia’s third season. Uncertain, she asks for time to consider and returns home. Once there, she meets Robert Carstairs, Charles’ younger brother and the black sheep of the family. Now she has to make a choice, follow her head or her heart.
Sweet and tender, this is a lovely tale of choices. In that age, the choice would’ve been forced onto Julia, accept the marriage proposal. It is always nicer to have the romantic choice over the logical one. 4 out of 5.
~*~
“French Intuition” by Delilah Marvelle
After what was supposed to be a temporary separation became a much longer one, Lady Gwendolyn Redford is besieged by Lord Westbrook, a former suitor. She loves her husband Camden, but rumors linking her to Westbrook may lead to a divorce.
The story had a strong beginning, but an abrupt change from separation to a scene that may have been meant to be sexy and arousing just seemed jarring and, except for Camden’s uncle, out of character. At heart this is a story about trust and learning to live without the children society expects the couple to have. 3 out of 5.
~*~
“A Suitable Gentleman” by Sara Bennett
Clarinda Howitt was more than willing to be her aunt’s put upon companion in order to give her sister a chance at happiness. Then she met James Quentin, finding her heart longing for more. Quentin is equally taken by Clarinda, but has another task to complete as well.
Adorable, sweet, and very lovely. I do rather wish this had been a much longer story as there was so more that could have been done, especially when you have two separate stories going on at once, even if they weave together. Despite the short format, Bennett’s characters are well-developed with real depth. 3.5 out of 5.
~*~
“Gretna Green” by Sharon Page
Ten years earlier Trevelyan Foxton and Sally Thomas swore their love to each other. Then Sally panicked and fled. Now she is Estelle Desjardins, an accomplished dress designer and seamstress while Foxton is a respected Bow Street runner who is also the heir to an earldom. His latest assignment is a search for an eloping heiress whose flight may have been aided and abetted by Estelle.
Delightful tale of lost lovers who accomplished more apart than they would have if they had stayed together. A mystery, lovers destined to be together, and a secondary romance that may not end well. 4.5 out of 5.
~*~
“Little Miss Independent” by Julia Templeton
Lord Roan Drayton returned home from the war horrible scarred, the subject of snide remarks and redirected looks from London Society. Childhood friend Adelaide Bruce is one of the few who doesn’t react to him as a monster, but as a man, one she desires.
Wonderful set up, interesting characters, and fitting as I read this on Memorial Day. An abrupt ending weakened the overall impact, yet this is still a good read. 3.5 out of 5
~*~
“The Devil’s Bargain” by Deborah Raleigh
Amelia, Countess Spaulding, has fought hard to transform herself from insecure wallflower to a capable and strong woman after discovering that her husband was a fortune hunter. Justin, Earl of Spaulding, will need all his skills and charm to gain back his wife after such a betrayal.
Again we have a story that would be better served in a longer format. Yet the author does a remarkably deft job with the confrontation and reconciliation of husband and wife. 3.5 out of 5
~*~
“Kindred Souls” by Barbara Metzger
Mildred Cole had left her cruel betrothed at the altar, unable to marry a man she didn’t love. The scandal saw her banished into near poverty with her maiden aunt. Ted Whitbread had wanted to marry Millie, but her father didn’t consider a second son worth of his daughter and refused to allow it. Angry, Ted fled to Canada to make his fortune.
Within the angst and danger there is also humor, something Metzger has always been extremely adept at in her stories. While I loved Millie, Ted, and her aunt, I’m not so certain that I would forgive Ned and Winnie quite so easily for their continuing betrayal. 3.5 out of 5
~*~
“Remember” by Michele Ann Young
Madame Charlotte Beauchere must marry a man with money to rescue her father from debtors’ prison. Gerard Arnfield, the Duke of Hawkworth has been asked by a friend to distract Charlotte’s attention from her target, little knowing that the two have a history.
Melodramatic, yet still fun to read. 3.5 out of 5
~*~
“Moonlight” by Carolyn Jewel
Alec McHenry Fall, Earl of Dane, was falling in love with an older woman, a long-time friend who is close to becoming engaged to another man.
I'm not much of a fan of older woman/younger man romantic relationships,s o this wouldn't have normally be a choice I would make to read if it wasn't in the collection. That said, I also had a problem with the lack of real chemistry between the hero and heroine, especially disturbed when Phillippa declares she always considered Alec as if he was her own child. Ewww. 3 out of 5
~*~
“An Invitation to Scandal” by Lorraine Heath
Nicholas Wynter, Earl of Harteley is broke, his home stripped of its contents thanks to his father’s lifestyle. A mysterious invitation from Arianna Vernon intrigues him. It might also be his salvation.
This was lovely. Heath has a way with unusual characters and this was no exception. Despite their future difficulties, you can’t help rooting for the young couple. 4 out of 5
A collection of 23 romances set during the short period of time called the Regency era. Lasting only between 1811 and 1820 when the Prince of Wales ruled as Prince Regent in place of his unstable father King George III, although some expand the time frame to the period between 1795 and 1837. A lovely collection that is a great introduction to some of the finest Regency romance writers around, even if a couple were overlooked or unavailable. 3.5 out of 5.
“Desperate Measures” by Candice Hern
Lydia Bettridge has been secretly in love with Geoffrey Danforth for years, but he appears to think of her as just his best friend’s sister. Another friend of her brother, Philip Hartwell, has a plan. Make the unknown object of Lydia’s affections jealous by playing attention to her. Except Philip bows out at the last minute, sending Geoffrey in to take his place playing the faux suitor.
A true comedy of errors with a delightful ending. I’ve always liked Hern’s Regencies for their mixture of romance and humor. This short story is a wonderful example of that. 3.5 out of 5.
~*~
“Upon a Midnight Clear” by Anna Campbell
Sebastian Sinclair, Earl of Kinvarra, and his wife have been separated for ten long years. He never expected to come across Alicia and her potential lover at the crash of a curricle. When Lord Harold Fenton deserts her, Sebastian must escort Alicia to safety and warmth. Alicia loved her husband, but his rough attentions on their wedding night had hurt and frightened her 17 year old self. While the separation had been her idea, neither expected it to last so long. Can this chance encounter help repair the damage?
Mere children when they came together in an arranged marriage, Sebastian and Alicia needed time to mature. Add the reason for their separation and you have an even better reason for their being apart for so many years. Still, everyone deserves a second chance. 3.5 out of 5.
~*~
“The Dashing Miss Langley” by Amanda Grange
Annabelle Langley had loved one special man years ago only to discover her feelings were one-sided. Now wealthy and independent, she was removing her niece from the city to gain distance from a youthful crush. The last person that Annabelle expected to run into was her once and only love, Lord Daniel Arundel.
A headstrong niece, an understanding aunt, differences in class and wealth, all are grist for the mill of this Regency romance. Of special note is the vivid description of the sudden storm that Annabelle and her niece were caught in. 4 out of 5.
~*~
“Cynders and Ashe” by Elizabeth Boyle
Ella Cynders has one chance to attend the Ashe Ball, all thanks to a lost invitation and a rejected gown. It was a dangerous thing to do, but would give her an opportunity to see Julian, Viscount Ashe, one final time before he is forced to marry.
A masterful reworking of the ancient fairytale, even if it was very unlikely that Julian's family would accept a young woman like Ella as his wife. 4 out of 5.
~*~
“His Wicked Revenge” by Vanessa Kelly
Anthony Barnett had lived for revenge after being torn from his first love. He schemed and worked until he had Lady Marissa Paget's wastrel brother in his clutches. But can he destroy the woman he still loves once he learns the whole truth?
Well written and intense. While it would have been better served in a longer version, Kelly still managed to engage your emotions during the read. 4 out of 5.
~*~
“Lady Invisible” by Patricia Rice
Widower Major Lucas Sumner needs a wife to help tame his tomboy daughter, one who wouldn’t mind living in the country that he loves. Fond memories of Harriet Briggs has him considering her a likely candidate, but who will tame Harriet?
I am particularly fond of heroines who are different and happy with their lives, so Harriet is wonderful. A beautiful tale that is my favorite to date in this collection. 4.5 out of 5.
~*~
“The Piano Tutor” by Anthea Lawson
Now that she is finally out of mourning, Diana Waverly, Viscountess Merrowstone, is being encouraged to live her life again, starting with the new piano tutor for her stepdaughter. Nicholas Jameson, the tutor, brings her back to life, but at what cost?
An interesting tale that had too abrupt an ending, even if it was expected. This would've been better suited as a longer story. 3.5 out of 5.
~*~
“Stolen” by Emma Wildes
Stephen Hammond used the opportunity of burglary with his childhood friend to seduce her. Lady Sabrina Pearson was all he wanted, but believed he could never be enough for her.
Interesting tale of good friends meant for each other finally figuring it out. 3.5 out of 5.
~*~
“Her Gentleman Thief” by Robyn DeHart
When a highwayman holds up Annalise Petty's coach, she uses it as a way to escape her marriage to Griffin Hartwell, Viscount Benning, certain that is simply the price for a piece of property.
Griffin's reticence came close to ruining his love life as Annalise had become so used to being a non-entity among her own family members. 3.5 out of 5.
~*~
“The Weatherlys’ Ball” by Christie Kelley
Lady Tessa Townson was back in society, a widow who still carries the taint of scandal. The man she had been caught with so many years ago was still alive. Garrett, Viscount Haverhill, wanted to hate Tessa for her betrayal in remarrying so quickly after he left for the war, but there was more to the story than he knew.
Tragic lovers torn apart by lies and circumstances can be a wonderful trope if in the right hands. Kelly definitely is the right author for the job. 4.5 out of 5.
~*~
“The Panchamaabhuta” by Leah Ball
Widow of a fallen soldier, all Francis had left was the Panchamaabhuta, an exotic ruby ring. Desperate, still grieving, she struggles to Bath to sell it to an interested party. Along the way she runs into Jared White, a rough hewn character who keeps stealing the ring while also bringing her back to life.
An interesting idea, having a hero with non-white blood, although the description of him couldn’t be whiter. I wish Ball had been willing to have Jared show that difference. Some very strong writing. 3.5 out of 5.
~*~
“Angelique” by Margo Maguire
Angelique Drummond is furious, forced by her father’s will to deal with her former fiancé for her living expenses. Angelique had fled to Italy after being told that Brice Colton, Duke of Heyworth, was keeping a mistress despite being engaged to her. She would not be like her mother, waiting for crumbs of love from her husband, wondering who he was with this time.
Sadly this just didn’t work for me. Too rushed, too formulaic, too trite. I didn’t have any emotional connection with any of the characters. Angelique is partly portrayed as a spoiled brat, yet even that doesn’t ring true. 3 out of 5.
~*~
“Like None Other” by Caroline Linden
Lady Emmaline Bowen enjoyed her small garden as well as the easy conversation with her neighbor, Captain Phineas Quentin, who would speak to her over the wall dividing their properties. But will their mothers ruin what might be the start of a beautiful love affair?
Sweet and lovely and different. I loved the ease of their conversation as well as how befuddled Quentin is with sweet talking a woman he wants to spend the rest of his life with. 4 out of 5.
~*~
“The Catch of the Season” by Shirley Kennedy
Miss Julia Winslow has received a marriage proposal from Charles Carstairs, Lord Melton. The Earl is a perfect specimen of manhood and it is Julia’s third season. Uncertain, she asks for time to consider and returns home. Once there, she meets Robert Carstairs, Charles’ younger brother and the black sheep of the family. Now she has to make a choice, follow her head or her heart.
Sweet and tender, this is a lovely tale of choices. In that age, the choice would’ve been forced onto Julia, accept the marriage proposal. It is always nicer to have the romantic choice over the logical one. 4 out of 5.
~*~
“French Intuition” by Delilah Marvelle
After what was supposed to be a temporary separation became a much longer one, Lady Gwendolyn Redford is besieged by Lord Westbrook, a former suitor. She loves her husband Camden, but rumors linking her to Westbrook may lead to a divorce.
The story had a strong beginning, but an abrupt change from separation to a scene that may have been meant to be sexy and arousing just seemed jarring and, except for Camden’s uncle, out of character. At heart this is a story about trust and learning to live without the children society expects the couple to have. 3 out of 5.
~*~
“A Suitable Gentleman” by Sara Bennett
Clarinda Howitt was more than willing to be her aunt’s put upon companion in order to give her sister a chance at happiness. Then she met James Quentin, finding her heart longing for more. Quentin is equally taken by Clarinda, but has another task to complete as well.
Adorable, sweet, and very lovely. I do rather wish this had been a much longer story as there was so more that could have been done, especially when you have two separate stories going on at once, even if they weave together. Despite the short format, Bennett’s characters are well-developed with real depth. 3.5 out of 5.
~*~
“Gretna Green” by Sharon Page
Ten years earlier Trevelyan Foxton and Sally Thomas swore their love to each other. Then Sally panicked and fled. Now she is Estelle Desjardins, an accomplished dress designer and seamstress while Foxton is a respected Bow Street runner who is also the heir to an earldom. His latest assignment is a search for an eloping heiress whose flight may have been aided and abetted by Estelle.
Delightful tale of lost lovers who accomplished more apart than they would have if they had stayed together. A mystery, lovers destined to be together, and a secondary romance that may not end well. 4.5 out of 5.
~*~
“Little Miss Independent” by Julia Templeton
Lord Roan Drayton returned home from the war horrible scarred, the subject of snide remarks and redirected looks from London Society. Childhood friend Adelaide Bruce is one of the few who doesn’t react to him as a monster, but as a man, one she desires.
Wonderful set up, interesting characters, and fitting as I read this on Memorial Day. An abrupt ending weakened the overall impact, yet this is still a good read. 3.5 out of 5
~*~
“The Devil’s Bargain” by Deborah Raleigh
Amelia, Countess Spaulding, has fought hard to transform herself from insecure wallflower to a capable and strong woman after discovering that her husband was a fortune hunter. Justin, Earl of Spaulding, will need all his skills and charm to gain back his wife after such a betrayal.
Again we have a story that would be better served in a longer format. Yet the author does a remarkably deft job with the confrontation and reconciliation of husband and wife. 3.5 out of 5
~*~
“Kindred Souls” by Barbara Metzger
Mildred Cole had left her cruel betrothed at the altar, unable to marry a man she didn’t love. The scandal saw her banished into near poverty with her maiden aunt. Ted Whitbread had wanted to marry Millie, but her father didn’t consider a second son worth of his daughter and refused to allow it. Angry, Ted fled to Canada to make his fortune.
Within the angst and danger there is also humor, something Metzger has always been extremely adept at in her stories. While I loved Millie, Ted, and her aunt, I’m not so certain that I would forgive Ned and Winnie quite so easily for their continuing betrayal. 3.5 out of 5
~*~
“Remember” by Michele Ann Young
Madame Charlotte Beauchere must marry a man with money to rescue her father from debtors’ prison. Gerard Arnfield, the Duke of Hawkworth has been asked by a friend to distract Charlotte’s attention from her target, little knowing that the two have a history.
Melodramatic, yet still fun to read. 3.5 out of 5
~*~
“Moonlight” by Carolyn Jewel
Alec McHenry Fall, Earl of Dane, was falling in love with an older woman, a long-time friend who is close to becoming engaged to another man.
I'm not much of a fan of older woman/younger man romantic relationships,s o this wouldn't have normally be a choice I would make to read if it wasn't in the collection. That said, I also had a problem with the lack of real chemistry between the hero and heroine, especially disturbed when Phillippa declares she always considered Alec as if he was her own child. Ewww. 3 out of 5
~*~
“An Invitation to Scandal” by Lorraine Heath
Nicholas Wynter, Earl of Harteley is broke, his home stripped of its contents thanks to his father’s lifestyle. A mysterious invitation from Arianna Vernon intrigues him. It might also be his salvation.
This was lovely. Heath has a way with unusual characters and this was no exception. Despite their future difficulties, you can’t help rooting for the young couple. 4 out of 5
morvvenna's review
adventurous
emotional
hopeful
lighthearted
relaxing
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
4.0
joreadsromance's review
4.0
A good taster of Regency authors
4 stars
I'm always on the look out for enjoyable Regency romances but never want to try a new author's full length book incase I don't like the writing style. That's why I was delighted to find this large anthology. At such a low price (£4 at the time of writing) I felt I couldn't go wrong.
There are 23 stories in this book, all of them original to this collection so you can guarantee you won't have read them anywhere else*. There are offerings from well known authors such as [a:Lorraine Heath|104926|Lorraine Heath|https://s.gr-assets.com/assets/nophoto/user/f_50x66-6a03a5c12233c941481992b82eea8d23.png], [a:Candice Hern|190696|Candice Hern|https://images.gr-assets.com/authors/1259991556p2/190696.jpg] and [a:Elizabeth Boyle|19842|Elizabeth Boyle|https://images.gr-assets.com/authors/1280682463p2/19842.jpg] as well as many from less the less well-known. Some stories are sexy and some are quite tame. Basically there's something for everyone no matter what your taste.
Much like another reviewer, I also found it quite astonishing how good most of the stories in this anthology were. For being so short (each lasts roughly 30 pages), there were remarkably few that I couldn't finish or didn't enjoy.
I really liked quite a number of the stories in the book and will definitely be checking out longer length stories by a few of the authors. My standout stories were Upon a Midnight Clear by [a:Anna Campbell|296477|Anna Campbell|https://images.gr-assets.com/authors/1460835374p2/296477.jpg], Cinders and Ashe by [a:Elizabeth Boyle|19842|Elizabeth Boyle|https://images.gr-assets.com/authors/1280682463p2/19842.jpg], Stolen by [a:Emma Wildes|937465|Emma Wildes|https://images.gr-assets.com/authors/1311996400p2/937465.jpg] and The Devil's Bargain by [a:Deborah Raleigh|211530|Deborah Raleigh|https://images.gr-assets.com/authors/1214223020p2/211530.jpg].
Overall, for the price, you get a really good selection of stories and even if you don't enjoy them all, you're bound to get find a few that take your fancy. This is a book I would definitely recommend. 4 stars.
*While this was true at the time of publication (2010), I understand that many of the individual stories in this anthology have since been published elsewhere.
bibliophiliadk's review
2.0
*Popsugar 2015 Reading Challende*
**A Book of Short Stories**
Usually I like short stories, they are a neat way of reading many stories without spending too much time on each. They are quit and satisfactory. But not with this book. Pretty much every single story felt rushed and superficial. The true art of short stories is telling your story thouroughly with only a few pages - hardly any of the stories in this book managed that.
**A Book of Short Stories**
Usually I like short stories, they are a neat way of reading many stories without spending too much time on each. They are quit and satisfactory. But not with this book. Pretty much every single story felt rushed and superficial. The true art of short stories is telling your story thouroughly with only a few pages - hardly any of the stories in this book managed that.
linddykal's review
3.0
THREE AND A HALF STARS
THE ONLY STORIES I READ WERE LORRAINE HEATH'S AND ANNA CAMPBELL
Anna Campbell's story gets four stars. Her short story is that of an estranged husband and wife. The got married when he was 19 and she was 16. Brought up entitled and spoiled, she did not enjoy (or was not ready for) marital relations. They both lacked the communication skills and the husband lacked the patience and maturity, being a young man, to be gentle with his bride. The wife moved away and except for glimpses now and then at mutual parties they have lived apart for a decade.
He comes across her in a carraige crash in the snow, and they have to share the night together at an inn, where they make up and start their life anew. I liked the intesnsity. I would have given it five stars but the heroine is just so bratty, though this is typical of Anna Campbell's habit of writing flawed characters. I can't really fault her for a trait that makes her books stand out.
Lorraine Heath's story only gets 3 stars, which is dissapointing because she is one of my very favorite HR authors. In this one the daughter of an extremely rich, infamous madame proposes to a aristocrat that is destitute due to his late father's gambling debts.
When he finds the truth about her mother he balks. Then decides he loves her anyway and she's worth it. I didn't feel any chemistry and the plot was too rushed for a short story.
THE ONLY STORIES I READ WERE LORRAINE HEATH'S AND ANNA CAMPBELL
Anna Campbell's story gets four stars. Her short story is that of an estranged husband and wife. The got married when he was 19 and she was 16. Brought up entitled and spoiled, she did not enjoy (or was not ready for) marital relations. They both lacked the communication skills and the husband lacked the patience and maturity, being a young man, to be gentle with his bride. The wife moved away and except for glimpses now and then at mutual parties they have lived apart for a decade.
He comes across her in a carraige crash in the snow, and they have to share the night together at an inn, where they make up and start their life anew. I liked the intesnsity. I would have given it five stars but the heroine is just so bratty, though this is typical of Anna Campbell's habit of writing flawed characters. I can't really fault her for a trait that makes her books stand out.
Lorraine Heath's story only gets 3 stars, which is dissapointing because she is one of my very favorite HR authors. In this one the daughter of an extremely rich, infamous madame proposes to a aristocrat that is destitute due to his late father's gambling debts.
When he finds the truth about her mother he balks. Then decides he loves her anyway and she's worth it. I didn't feel any chemistry and the plot was too rushed for a short story.